THE iconic buildings of York’s former Terry’s chocolate factory are proving a magnet for TV and film producers prior to their redevelopment.

The site’s joint owner and developer, Henry Boot Developments Limited, has made the unique location in Bishopthorpe Road available to TV and film makers.

The first to take advantage are the makers of Channel 4’s drama series Utopia, who are using the buildings to film scenes for the second series.

Producers Kudos have been working with Creative England, a national agency whose role includes connecting TV and film producers with potential filming locations.

Series location manager Richard Knight said: “York is a fantastic film-friendly city and the availability of the former Terry’s factory buildings is a huge bonus for us.

“Creatively the location is spectacular and adds to the already high calibre of locations that we have identified in and around the city for filming.”

Utopia will be filmed over the next four months with at least two weeks dedicated to locations solely in York. The series is expected to be aired on Channel 4 in August next year.

Utopia is a dark and enigmatic thriller which tells the story of an unconnected set of people who find themselves in possession of the manuscript for a legendary graphic novel, and whose lives then brutally implode as they are pursued by a shadowy and murderous organisation.

Chris Hordley, Creative England’s production liaison manager for Yorkshire, encouraged other TV and film producers to follow in Utopia’s footsteps and take advantage of the Chocolate Works site ahead of its redevelopment.

“York is already an extremely popular location for filming, and the Terry’s factory site is a real gem of a location with strong architectural character and a rich heritage,” he said.

“By opening up access to TV and film producers, Henry Boot Developments have ensured this fantastic filming opportunity isn’t missed.”

The Chocolate Works’ suitability as a filming location will be for a limited period until the commercial element of the site is redeveloped for its new long-term uses.

The site is being developed by Henry Boot Developments and currently being marketed by Jones Lang LaSalle and Savills, who are continuing their negotiations with a number of potential occupiers.